Chad Colton guides companies and business owners through their most high-stakes commercial litigation—when businesses, reputations, and livelihoods are on the line.
Chad has taken nearly 30 cases to trial across the country and often serves as “parachute” trial counsel, joining cases at the mid-way point or on the eve of trial. Over the last few years, he has been lead trial counsel on some of the most high-profile jury trials in the Pacific Northwest, including defeating Nike’s eight-figure claims against NFL star Odell Beckham Jr.
Chad is recognized as “a go-to lawyer for bet-the-company commercial litigation” by the country’s leading legal ranking guide, Chambers USA. He serves as lead counsel in business cases involving contracts, partnership disputes, trade secrets, fiduciary duties, intellectual property, and high-damages tort claims. He represents clients in a variety of industries, including technology, health care, agriculture, and sports and entertainment—representing or opposing A-list celebrities and major sports brands.
While Chad is well-versed in all stages of litigation, his true passion is his parachute trial practice. Most commercial cases don’t go to trial. Consequently, even many of the most brilliant and sophisticated litigators haven’t had the opportunity to develop deep trial expertise. So, when business litigation actually heads to trial, clients can find themselves anxious about presenting complex business concepts to a judge or jury.
That’s where Chad comes in to help. As market sources reported to Chambers, Chad is an “elite trial lawyer” who has what most litigators don’t: “actual trial experience and outstanding public speaking skills.” When called upon as parachute trial counsel, Chad and his team quickly assess the case and formulate an understandable, hard-hitting trial package that will resonate with jurors. Chad also works seamlessly with other law firms, joining the team to take on the most difficult aspects of trial so that they can focus on settlement and other critical case tasks.
Chad’s ability to rapidly understand a complex case and prepare for trial is the result of nearly two decades of studying trial techniques and refining his talents through hands-on experience in the courtroom. As one client put it, “In the courtroom, Chad holds a charismatic presence of integrity with the judge and jury that delivers results and makes you proud to have him representing you.” Chad loves his craft and shares tips on trial work, depositions, and oral argument with his peers through his video series “When You Need to Win” and live seminars.
Chad balances his work with his dedication to his family and (some may say) an insufferable obsession with karaoke, old Led Zeppelin albums, and playing loud guitar. He also stays active in his community, having served on the boards of directors for numerous non-profits and legal organizations, including Civics Learning Project, Up & Out, Quechua Benefit, the Technology and Corporate Counsel sections of the Oregon State Bar, and the Oregon Association of Defense Counsel.
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